TOKYO — Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 stock average rocketed more than 2.8% to close at a record 65,158.19 on Monday, breaching the 65,000 mark for the first time as optimism over potential progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations eased fears about energy supplies and boosted global risk appetite.

The index gained 1,819.12 points, or 2.87%, in Tokyo trading, according to data from Nikkei Inc. It hit an intraday high of 65,408.87. The broader Topix index rose about 1.4% to 3,946.67. Trading volume was solid as investors piled into exporters, technology shares and energy-sensitive names.

The surge came after U.S. President Donald Trump signaled that talks aimed at ending the conflict with Iran were advancing. Reopening the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments that had been disrupted by the fighting — would relieve pressure on energy prices and benefit import-dependent Japan. Oil prices fell sharply on the news, with U.S. crude dropping more than $4 a barrel in early trading.

“This news sparked a drop in oil prices along with gains in Japanese government bonds and the yen, adding to signs of improving risk sentiment,” said Maki Sawada, an equities strategist at Nomura Securities.

Even so, Sawada cautioned that any agreement faces hurdles. “Even if an agreement is reached, there remains uncertainty regarding whether it will be adhered to, as the Iranian government may not be united on the issue,” she said. “The 65,000 mark is a psychological milestone, so reaching this level has led to some caution and selling pressure at such a high price range.”

Monday’s rally capped a strong run for Japanese shares. The Nikkei has climbed more than 70% over the past year, driven by a mix of corporate governance reforms, resilient earnings — particularly in technology and semiconductors — and periodic weakness in the yen that has helped exporters. Foreign investors have returned in force, drawn by relatively attractive valuations compared with U.S. markets and efforts by the Tokyo Stock Exchange to push companies toward higher shareholder returns through buybacks and dividends.

Technology and AI-related stocks led the gains. SoftBank Group jumped nearly 12% in recent sessions on optimism around its portfolio companies, including potential U.S. listings. Chip equipment makers such as Tokyo Electron and Advantest also advanced, riding global enthusiasm for artificial intelligence infrastructure. Exporters like Toyota and Sony benefited from both the risk-on mood and a slightly softer yen.

The rally reflects broader market dynamics. Strong U.S. tech earnings earlier in the month, including upbeat forecasts from companies like Advanced Micro Devices, spilled over into Japanese suppliers. At the same time, easing geopolitical tensions provided a catalyst that many investors had been waiting for after weeks of volatility tied to Middle East risks.

“Today’s sharp gain of the Nikkei was led by the strong performance of chip shares, driven by Advanced Micro Devices’s strong forecast,” said Takamasa Ikeda, a senior portfolio manager at GCI Asset Management. “The contents of the U.S.-Iran peace proposals are thin, but there is an expectation in the market that further military action will not take place.”

Japan’s economy remains sensitive to energy costs. As a major importer with limited domestic resources, the country has faced headwinds whenever oil prices spiked due to the Iran conflict. Analysts estimate that a sustained reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could shave billions off Japan’s annual import bill and support consumer spending and corporate margins.

The Bank of Japan has been navigating a complex environment. With inflation above target and signs of wage growth, markets have priced in the possibility of further rate hikes later in 2026. A stronger yen on Monday — the dollar fell to around 158.80-159 yen — could temper some exporter gains but also reflects improved confidence. Japanese government bonds rallied, pushing yields lower.

Broader Asian markets joined the upbeat mood, though trading was thin due to holidays in South Korea and Hong Kong. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 added 0.4%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose nearly 1%. U.S. stock futures pointed higher.

Still, analysts warn that the rally could prove vulnerable. The Nikkei has moved sharply in both directions this year amid shifting oil prices, U.S. policy signals and domestic political developments under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government. Corporate earnings for the fiscal year ending in March 2027 will be closely watched for any signs that higher energy costs or yen fluctuations have dented profitability.

The milestone above 65,000 comes more than three decades after the index last set records in the late 1980s bubble era. Today’s market is fundamentally different — underpinned by real earnings growth rather than speculation — but the speed of the advance has raised questions about valuations in certain sectors.

Looking ahead, investors will parse upcoming economic data from Japan and the United States, as well as any further updates from Washington and Tehran. A durable peace deal could open the door to sustained gains, while any breakdown in talks might reignite volatility.

For now, the mood in Tokyo trading rooms was celebratory. Floor traders at the Tokyo Stock Exchange watched the electronic board tick higher through the afternoon session, with the close confirming the record finish shortly after 3 p.m. local time.

The performance underscores Japan’s renewed prominence in global portfolios. Once dismissed as a stagnant market, the country has benefited from structural changes, including pressure on companies to deploy capital more efficiently and a central bank that has gradually normalized policy after years of ultra-loose settings.

Yet challenges remain. Demographic headwinds, high public debt and exposure to global supply chain disruptions mean the rally is far from guaranteed. Economists at Nomura and other institutions forecast continued but moderating growth, with risks tilted toward external shocks.

Monday’s trading capped what has been a remarkable recovery and expansion for Japanese equities. From levels below 30,000 just a few years ago, the Nikkei has more than doubled, reflecting both cyclical tailwinds and longer-term repositioning by international investors seeking diversification away from concentrated U.S. tech exposure.

As markets digest the geopolitical developments, attention will shift to corporate results and policy signals. The coming weeks could determine whether this breakout above 65,000 marks the start of a new leg higher or a peak that tests investor conviction.

SAN ANTONIO — Victor Wembanyama delivered a commanding performance with 33 points, eight rebounds, five assists and three blocks, leading the San Antonio Spurs to a 103-82 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night and evening the Western Conference finals at two games apiece.

The 7-foot-4 Frenchman set the tone early, drilling a 3-pointer on the game’s first possession and rejecting a Chet Holmgren dunk attempt. He capped the first half with a logo-range buzzer-beater, sending the Frost Bank Center crowd into a frenzy as the Spurs built an insurmountable lead.

San Antonio dominated from the opening tip, embarking on a 16-0 run in the first quarter and never trailing after the initial minutes. The Spurs led by as many as 25 points, forcing 20 turnovers from the Thunder while holding them to a season-low 82 points on 33% shooting from the field, including 18% from beyond the arc.

Wembanyama finished 11 of 22 from the field and 3 of 7 from three-point range in 31 minutes. Devin Vassell and Stephon Castle each added 13 points for the Spurs, while De’Aaron Fox contributed 12 points, a playoff career-high 10 rebounds and five assists.

The Thunder, who led the series 2-1 entering the game, struggled across the board. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander managed 19 points but had limited space to operate against San Antonio’s length and switching defense. Oklahoma City was missing key contributors due to injury, further hampering their offense.

Wembanyama credited the team’s collective defensive effort rather than any single adjustment after their Game 3 loss. “We’ve got good individual defenders so when we connect individual and team defense, it holds teams to low-scoring numbers,” he said.

On the Spurs’ approach coming into Game 4, Wembanyama emphasized consistency. “We just responded. It was nothing amazing. It wasn’t magic. We just did what we needed to do.”

The victory marked a strong response for the second-seeded Spurs, who had dropped Game 3 at home 123-108. With the series shifting back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Tuesday, San Antonio showed it can compete with — and at times overwhelm — the top-seeded Thunder, the defending champions.

San Antonio’s defense was the story. The Spurs disrupted Oklahoma City’s rhythm, turning potential transition opportunities into points off turnovers, tallying 25 such points. Holmgren and the Thunder frontcourt faced constant pressure from Wembanyama’s rim protection and mobility.

Offensively, Wembanyama’s versatility shone. He mixed mid-range jumpers, drives to the rim and perimeter shooting while facilitating for teammates. His half-court buzzer-beater provided both momentum and a highlight that quickly spread across social media.

For the Thunder, the loss represented their lowest postseason output of the season. Coach Mark Daigneault’s squad, known for its depth and pace, could not generate easy looks. Gilgeous-Alexander, the two-time MVP, was held in check relative to his standards, facing constant harassment from Spurs defenders.

The series has been competitive and physically demanding. Oklahoma City took Game 1 in double overtime but lost Game 1? Wait, series history shows back-and-forth battles highlighting young talent on both sides. Wembanyama has averaged strong numbers throughout, but Game 4 represented his most complete outing.

Analysts noted the Spurs’ ability to dictate tempo. By slowing the game and emphasizing half-court execution, San Antonio neutralized much of Oklahoma City’s transition game. Turnovers proved costly for the Thunder, who appeared out of sync for long stretches.

Gregg Popovich, the Spurs’ legendary former coach still influential in the organization, has been a presence. Players have referenced his teachings on resilience and preparation. The team’s focus after the Game 3 defeat paid dividends in a dominant home performance.

Wembanyama, in just his third NBA season, continues to elevate his game on the biggest stage. His combination of size, skill and basketball IQ has made him a nightmare matchup for Oklahoma City’s bigs. The French star has drawn comparisons to all-time greats for his two-way impact.

Looking ahead to Game 5, the Thunder will need to regain their offensive flow and limit turnovers. Home-court advantage returns to Paycom Center, where Oklahoma City has been strong. Adjustments on defending Wembanyama and containing San Antonio’s role players will be critical.

For the Spurs, sustaining defensive intensity and getting contributions from the supporting cast remain keys. Vassell, Castle and Fox must continue providing secondary scoring and playmaking to complement Wembanyama’s dominance.

The Western Conference finals have lived up to expectations as a clash between two of the league’s brightest young cores. The Thunder entered as favorites with their regular-season success and championship experience, but San Antonio has proven resilient under first-year head coach Mitch Johnson.

Injuries have played a role, with both teams navigating absences. How each side adapts will shape the remainder of the series. A potential Game 7 in San Antonio looms as a possibility if the road teams continue splitting results.

Basketball observers have praised the series for its entertainment value and showcase of future stars. Wembanyama’s emergence as a playoff force adds another chapter to his rapid ascent. At 22 years old, he already carries the weight of franchise expectations with poise.

The Spurs’ defensive schemes in Game 4 highlighted their growth. Multiple defenders rotated effectively, using length to contest shots without fouling. This connected defense limited Oklahoma City’s 3-point attempts and paint scoring.

Off the court, the atmosphere in San Antonio was electric. Fans chanted and roared with each Wembanyama highlight, creating a playoff environment that energized the home team. The logo shot to close the half became an instant classic moment.

As the series heads to Oklahoma City, both teams face pressure. The Thunder must avoid a home loss that would hand San Antonio a 3-2 lead, while the Spurs aim to steal another road win and move within one victory of the NBA Finals.

Wembanyama downplayed individual heroics. “We all have high standards and I know I have a lot of responsibilities, but I’m here for it,” he said. “Yeah, it was better today. It wasn’t perfect.”

The coming games will test endurance and adaptability. With the season on the line, small adjustments in defensive rotations, offensive sets and rebounding battles could decide the outcome.

San Antonio’s ability to “shut down” the Thunder in Game 4 answered questions about their competitiveness. Whether they can replicate that level on the road remains to be seen. The series, now a best-of-three, promises more drama as two powerhouse teams battle for a chance at the championship.

Operator

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the Tharisa plc investor presentation. [Operator Instructions] The company may not be in a position to answer every question received during the meeting itself. However, the company can review all questions submitted today and publish responses where it’s appropriate to do so on the Investor Meet Company platform.

Before we begin, as usual, we would like to submit the following poll. And if you could give that your kind attention, I’m sure the company would be most grateful. And I’d now like to hand you over to CEO, Phoevos Pouroulis. Good morning, sir.

Phoevos Pouroulis
CEO & Director

Good morning, and welcome everyone, to this half year results presentation for our financial year 2026. With me today in the room is our CFO, Michael Jones; and CFO designate, Jacques Breytenbach, who will be taking over from Michael from the 1st of August, as Michael enters his retirement.

So really starting off with our intent and purpose statement of redefining resources, innovating with purpose and empowering futures. And we’ll unpack those 3 pillars during the course of this morning. This is our agenda for the day, running through predominantly the financial highlights for the half year, but really touching on what we’re doing beyond just mining and looking into our Vision 2030 and our strategy around commercializing some of these innovative initiatives.

I’d like to take a moment now to share a video that’s been created by our team that spans across South Africa and Zimbabwe. So Jacques, over to you, if you could share that video. Thank you.

Kenton Jarvis
CEO, Member of the Management Board & Director

Welcome, everybody, to easyJet’s half year presentation of the results to the 31st of March 2026. I’m joined today by our Chair, Stephen Hester, and the Management Board here on the front row. We’ve already released our full presentation to the website this morning. I don’t know whether you’ve had a chance to have a look at it. But if you haven’t, I will give a brief summary now before we go through to Q&A.

So starting with our performance for the first half. The underlying H1 results were consistent with expectations and were in line with what we put out in the April trading statement, there was a very limited impact from the Middle East in terms of trading, but obviously, there was a fuel impact with volatile fuel pricing in the month of March, which caused a GBP 25 million additional cost.

Now we clearly recognize that these winter losses are not where we plan them to be when we set out the 2023 targets. And it

Jacques Aschenbroich

Ladies and gentlemen, dear shareholders, welcome to this play for our combined Annual Meeting. It’s an honor for me to chair your company’s Annual General Meeting. It’s a key annual event in the life of your company. And It’s also a special opportunity for myself, your CEO and your Board of Directors to present our achievements, our plans and of course, to answer your questions. The Board of Directors, which met just prior to this meeting, has finalized the answers to the 68 written questions submitted to us.

These questions come from the forum for responsible investment, 15 questions, the Orange International Employee Stock ownership, one question from Mr. Philippe Petit, individual shareholder, 10 questions from Mr. Alain Canal, individual shareholder, 2 questions from Filtrust, one question and from CFE CGC Orange, 39 questions.

As permitted by the commercial code and to prioritize time for dialogue with you who are present today, I invite you to review them on the dedicated pages, dedicated to the general meeting on the orange.com website. Now I’d like to provide you with some legal information regarding the conduct of this combined general meeting. In accordance with the law and Article 21 of Orange’s Articles of Association, I will preside over this meeting, which is being held on first call.

The preliminary notice of the meeting was published in the BALO on February 27, 2026. And the notice of the meeting was published in the BALO on April 24

Neville Brink
CEO & Executive Director

Good morning, everybody, and thank you for joining us this morning at our interim results presentation. My name is Neville Brink, CEO of the Group. And I’m joined by Zafar Mahomed, CFO and over the next 1.5 hours, will take you through our half year results presentation.

The format that I’m going to follow is — I’ll give a quick overview of the results. I’ll then work through the divisions, the 3 operating businesses I’ll then Zaf — hand over to Zaf and he’ll do the group financial results. And then I’ll end off having a brief discussion on the next 6 months outlook and talk a bit about our strategy, and then we should have about half an hour for questions. So let’s kick off straight away.

So let me just start by saying people asked me how I felt about the results. And it’s — although we are flat on last year, it’s a quite pleasing result. And why I say that is it points to the diversification of our business. And the strategy that we’ve developed over the last 5 years of broadening our ability to deal with the volatility of the fishing industry. And it is a volatile industry, and we’ve had some tough challenges in the 6 months. But overall, our business has done well because where we’ve had challenges, other businesses have stepped up and replace the earnings that we’ve seen a drop off in particular in the fishmeal and oil side. And Lucky Star, our strategy remains to grow that brand and expand into new categories. We spend substantial capital in the Wild caught side, enhancing and upgrading our factories and vessels, and

WASHINGTON — As Americans prepare for the three-day weekend marking Memorial Day on Monday, May 25, 2026, the holiday serves as both a solemn tribute to fallen service members and the unofficial kickoff to summer. While many will fire up grills and head to beaches, the day’s origins trace back to the Civil War era, when communities first gathered to honor the dead with flowers and flags.

Here are 10 key facts that highlight the history, traditions and significance of Memorial Day 2026.

1. Memorial Day 2026 falls on May 25, the last Monday in May. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 shifted the observance from the fixed date of May 30 to create a consistent three-day weekend for federal employees. This change took effect in 1971. In 2026, it lands on May 25, aligning with millions planning travel and gatherings.

2. It began as Decoration Day after the Civil War. Originally called Decoration Day, the holiday emerged in 1868 when Maj. Gen. John A. Logan issued an order for the Grand Army of the Republic to decorate graves of Union soldiers. Communities across the country, including formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1865, had already begun similar tributes. The name evolved to Memorial Day, becoming official in 1967.

3. More than 25 cities claim to be its birthplace. Waterloo, New York, received official recognition from President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966 as the birthplace, citing its 1866 observance where businesses closed to honor fallen soldiers. However, historians note early events in other locations, reflecting widespread grassroots efforts to remember the Civil War dead.

4. Red poppies serve as a powerful symbol of remembrance. Inspired by the 1915 poem “In Flanders Fields” by Lt. Col. John McCrae, the red poppy became associated with honoring the fallen, particularly after World War I. Volunteers often distribute them to support veterans’ causes.

5. Flags fly at half-staff until noon. By presidential proclamation, the U.S. flag is displayed at half-staff from sunrise until noon on Memorial Day. President Donald Trump’s 2026 proclamation also designated the day as one of prayer for permanent peace and called for the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time.

6. The National Moment of Remembrance occurs at 3 p.m. Since 2000, Americans have observed a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time to honor those who died in military service. This pause encourages reflection amid what has become a busy holiday weekend.

7. Arlington National Cemetery hosts major ceremonies. Each year, the president or vice president lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Thousands of small American flags are placed on graves throughout the cemetery, a tradition dating back decades. Similar events occur at national cemeteries nationwide.

8. It marks the unofficial start of summer with major travel. The holiday weekend typically sees millions on the move. In recent years, projections have topped 3 million air travelers, alongside road trips and beach outings. Retailers report strong sales in grilling supplies, mattresses and outdoor gear.

9. Hot dogs and barbecues define many celebrations. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Americans consume billions of hot dogs. The holiday has evolved into backyard gatherings, parades and festivals in communities large and small, blending remembrance with family traditions.

10. It differs from Veterans Day. Memorial Day honors those who died in service, while Veterans Day on Nov. 11 recognizes all who served, living and deceased. The distinction remains important in how Americans express gratitude.

Beyond these facts, Memorial Day 2026 features parades and ceremonies across the country. Cities from Syracuse, New York, to Falls Church, Virginia, and Cleveland, Ohio, planned events including fun runs, music and veteran tributes. Some locations adjusted for weather, moving indoor or modifying outdoor displays.

The holiday’s evolution reflects America’s ongoing relationship with its military history. From the roughly 620,000 Civil War deaths that prompted early observances to sacrifices in later conflicts, the day underscores the human cost of freedom.

Economically, the weekend boosts sectors like travel, retail and tourism. AAA and other groups have historically forecasted record travel numbers as families take advantage of the long break.

Culturally, the day blends solemnity with celebration. Veterans’ organizations use the occasion for education, sharing stories of service and sacrifice. Programs like the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS bring stories to a national audience.

Challenges persist in preserving the day’s meaning. Some observers worry that barbecues and sales overshadow remembrance. Officials and advocacy groups encourage visits to cemeteries, participation in moments of silence, and teaching younger generations about the holiday’s roots.

In 2026, with the nation at a significant milestone — the 250th anniversary of independence approaching — reflections on service carry added weight. Presidential proclamations continue to stress unity and gratitude.

Communities adapt traditions to modern times. Virtual events, social media campaigns with poppy filters, and youth involvement in flag placements help keep engagement high. Schools and organizations host essay contests and history lessons focused on specific conflicts and individual stories.

The economic impact extends to small businesses. Parades bring crowds to main streets, while memorial events support local nonprofits. In Arlington and other areas, special exhibits and museums offer deeper historical context.

Weather often plays a role, as seen in reports of rain affecting some 2026 events in Connecticut and elsewhere, prompting indoor shifts.

Ultimately, Memorial Day 2026 reminds Americans of shared history. Whether attending a parade, visiting a gravesite or pausing at 3 p.m., the day calls for balancing joy in freedom with solemn memory of its price.

As one historical reflection noted, the custom of decorating graves draws from ancient traditions worldwide, adapted to honor those who defended the nation. In an era of global tensions, the message of sacrifice and peace resonates strongly.

Families across the country will gather, many with personal connections to military service. For them, the day holds intimate meaning alongside national observance.

With travel expected to surge and communities preparing tributes, Memorial Day 2026 stands as a multifaceted holiday — part remembrance, part recreation, fully American in its blend of duty and delight.